Dear musicians, conductors, and music schools

We are thrilled to invite you to the 73rd edition of the European Music Festival for Young People, taking place from 30 April to 5 May 2025 in Neerpelt, Belgium! This year, the festival will focus on instrumental ensembles, offering a vibrant platform for young talent to shine. Join us for this inspiring celebration of music, youth, and cultural exchange!

Why participate in the 2025 instrumental edition?

The European Music Festival for Young People has become a cherished tradition, bringing together young musicians from across Europe and beyond. What started as a local competition has grown into a renowned festival, annually welcoming over 4,000 young musicians from neighbouring countries as well as places further afield, including Australia, Ecuador, Congo, Colombia, Japan, and Mexico.

This year, we are welcoming ensembles of all genres, from brass bands and jazz groups to percussion and folk music ensembles, across various categories including classical orchestras and early music ensembles.

Whether you are part of a brass band, jazz ensemble, chamber orchestra, or folk music group, there is a category for your music to shine. Here are the categories available for participation:

Categories for Instrumental Ensembles:

• Category  A: Wind Bands, Brass Bands, and Marching Bands
• Category B: Jazz Ensembles and Big Bands
• Category C: Percussion Ensembles
• Category D: Chamber Music Ensembles and conservatory students in chamber groups
• Category E: Chamber, String, and Symphony Orchestras
• Category F: Folk Music Ensembles and Free Instrumentation Groups
• Category G: Early Music Ensembles

Participants can look forward to a week of musical highlights, including a spectacular opening show, concerts, workshops, and jury performances. A distinguished international jury will award honours ranging from diplomas to the prestigious “Summa Cum Laude” prize.

We also offer flexibility in participation—whether you prefer the full five-day experience or a single day of involvement, we have options tailored to your needs.

How to Register:

Registrations are open until 29 November 2024! Visit our website at for all necessary information, including the registration form, regulations, and a programme overview in five languages. Have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our festival office at [info@emj.be]info@emj.be.

Share Your Adventure with the World 🎶📸

Capture your festival moments and share them on social media with the hashtag #EMJfestival. Join this global celebration of music and friendship that connects young musicians from around the world!

We look forward to welcoming you to Neerpelt for an unforgettable experience at the 73rd European Music Festival for Young People. Seize this opportunity and celebrate the universal language of music with us!